Palm Sunday marks Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, launching Holy Week with profound lessons. From humility to worship, these 10 insights from EEW Magazine, drawn from Scripture and a preacher’s wisdom, inspire reflection on Christ’s sacrifice. Carry them through Easter and beyond to deepen your faith and embrace God’s love daily.

By Naomi Hawkins for EEW Magazine // Holy Week

On a warm spring afternoon, I sat on my grandparents’ back porch, the sweet tang of Grandma’s homemade lemonade cooling my hands. My grandfather, a seasoned preacher with a voice like honey and fire, leaned back in his rocking chair, his eyes twinkling with wisdom passed down from a long line of ministers.

“Palm Sunday,” he said, “ain’t just about waving branches. It’s about Jesus showing us how to live, love, and trust God’s plan.”

As he unpacked the story of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, I felt those truths settle into my soul. Today, on April 13, 2025, as Palm Sunday ushers in Holy Week, I’m sharing those lessons to inspire and strengthen your faith.

Palm Sunday is more than a church tradition—it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and draw closer to Jesus. Recorded in all four Gospels (Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19), this day marks Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, riding a humble donkey as crowds shouted “Hosanna!” and waved palm branches.

It’s a celebration of victory, but also a call to prepare hearts for the cross and resurrection. Drawing from Scripture and my grandfather’s porch-side wisdom, here are 10 powerful lessons from Palm Sunday to carry through Holy Week and beyond.

1. The Humility of True Greatness

Scripture: Matthew 21:5 – “See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey…”

Jesus, the King of kings, didn’t ride into Jerusalem on a warhorse but a donkey—a symbol of peace and humility. In a world that celebrates flash and power, He showed that true greatness lies in serving others with a humble heart. When life tempts you to chase status, remember Jesus’ example. Shine through kindness and grace, trusting God to lift you up.

2. Misplaced Expectations

Scripture: John 12:13 – “They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, ‘Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!’”

When the crowds shouted “Hosanna!”—a Hebrew word meaning “Save us!”—they were crying out for a hero to free them from Roman rule. They waved palm branches, a symbol of victory, expecting Jesus to be a political king who’d bring earthly triumph. But Jesus rode a donkey, not a warhorse, signaling His mission was far greater: to save souls through His sacrifice on the cross. Their shouts of praise masked a misunderstanding of God’s plan. How often do we pray for one thing—a job, a breakthrough, a quick fix—only to miss God’s deeper purpose? Palm Sunday reminds us to trust His salvation, not our own expectations, knowing His way leads to eternal victory.

3. Fulfilled Prophecy

Scripture: Zechariah 9:9 – “Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! … See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey…”

Long before Jesus entered Jerusalem, Zechariah prophesied a king on a donkey, and Jesus fulfilled every detail—cloaks, branches, and all. This proves He’s the promised Messiah, unwavering in purpose. When doubts arise in tough times, hold fast to God’s Word. His promises are sure, anchoring your faith and guiding you through uncertainty to hope.

4. The Fickleness of Crowds

Scripture: Matthew 27:22-23 – “Crucify him!”

Palm Sunday’s cheering crowds turned to cries of “Crucify him!” by Friday, showing how quickly human loyalty shifts. While people’s praise can fade, God’s love remains constant. When recognition or support wanes—perhaps at work or home—anchor your worth in Christ. His steadfast presence empowers you to stand firm, unshaken by life’s changing tides.

5. Victory Through Sacrifice

Scripture: John 12:24 – “Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed…”

Palm Sunday’s joy foreshadows the cross, where Jesus’ death brought life to all. True victory demands surrender—letting go of plans, pride, and sometimes even embracing pain for God’s purpose. In moments of loss or struggle, trust God is sowing seeds for renewal. Your sacrifices, offered in faith, bloom into blessings beyond imagination.

6. The Power of Worship

Scripture: Luke 19:37-40 – “…If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.”

As Jesus entered Jerusalem, the crowd’s praise roared, defying critics, because His presence demanded worship. Jesus said stones would cry out if they stopped. Refuse to let stones cry out for you—lift songs or heartfelt prayers. When life weighs heavy, worship stirs faith, draws you to God, and shines His light through every trial.

7. Connection to Jewish Feasts

Scripture: Leviticus 23:40 – “…Take choice fruit from the trees, and palm fronds … and rejoice before the Lord…”

Palm branches tied to Sukkot, a feast of God’s presence, and Jesus’ entry fulfilled this joy. He is God among us, dwelling in every moment. Wave your branches—acts of love or trust—to honor Him daily. His nearness brings peace, reminding you that victory is already yours through Christ’s eternal reign.

8. The Call to Reflection

Scripture: Psalm 118:25-26 – “Lord, save us! … Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Palm Sunday invites us to slow down and reflect on the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice. As the crowds shouted “Hosanna”—“Save us!”—they longed for deliverance from worldly troubles, unaware they were proclaiming the arrival of a greater, eternal salvation through the cross. This week, take time to pray, journal, or simply rest in God’s presence. Let reflection anchor your faith in the hope of Easter and renew your heart to walk boldly in the love of Christ.

9. Trusting God’s Plan

Scripture: Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.”

Jesus’ humble donkey baffled some, yet it was God’s perfect design. When life’s path feels unclear—delays, setbacks, or unanswered prayers—trust God’s higher wisdom. His plans unfold beyond our sight, working every trial for our good. Lean into His guidance, confident He’s crafting a story of redemption for your life.

10. The Promise of Future Glory

Scripture: Revelation 7:9-10 – “…There before me was a great multitude … holding palm branches in their hands.”

Palm Sunday glimpses heaven, where countless voices will wave palm branches, praising Jesus forever. This vision fuels endurance through hardship. When weariness strikes, picture eternity’s joy—your faith joins that chorus. Each step you take, palm in hand, draws you closer to Christ’s everlasting kingdom, radiant with glory.

Living the Lessons

As I sipped the last of Grandma’s lemonade that day, my grandfather’s words lingered: “Palm Sunday ain’t just a story—it’s a way of life.” These lessons resonate for anyone who’s trusted God through challenges, worshipped fiercely, or held fast to hope. Whether juggling work, serving in church, or navigating storms, Palm Sunday calls for living humbly, worshipping boldly, and trusting deeply.

This Holy Week and beyond, carry these truths forward. Wave your palm branches—maybe a prayer of gratitude, a kind word, or a moment of surrender—and celebrate Jesus as King. Reflect on His sacrifice, not just today but every day, knowing His love never wavers. As my grandfather would say, “Keep your eyes on Jesus. He’s all you need.”

Sources: Insights drawn from Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19, Zechariah 9:9, and reputable biblical resources, ensuring accuracy and depth.

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